Applicator for distributing a substance onto a target surface

ABSTRACT

A mitt applicator, such as a mitt, for distributing a substance onto a target surface in the preferred form of a mitt. The mitt is composed of two panels, each panel consisting of at least one layer. The mitt&#39;s panels are in face-to-face contact with each other. At least one panel is configured to form an external pocket to be used as a product-dispensing reservoir. The inner layer of each panel can form the inside layer of the mitt and can be impervious to liquid or gel substances in order to protect the user&#39;s hand. The outer layer of the two panels can be made from materials with different properties. Also included, is a method for construction and method for using the above applicator. Additionally, a mitt with an optional reservoir is disclosed with a radial end shape and an elongated body to protect the user against substances applied to said mitt.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 60/827,844, entitled “APPLICATOR FOR DISTRIBUTING A SUBSTANCE ONTO ATARGET SURFACE,” filed Oct. 2, 2006.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates generally to liquid or gel application equipment.More specifically, it relates to implements for applying a liquid or gelto a target surface.

BACKGROUND ART

In the art of distributing substances to target surfaces, hand heldarticles have been developed that apply substances such as paintdirectly to a target surface. These include articles such as brushes androllers. These common approaches involve dispensing the substance from abucket or other vessel onto the target surface, then utilizing a rag,sponge, towel, brush, or other implement to distribute the product on atarget surface.

However, the use of such articles to manually apply a substance to asurface of an object frequently results in exposure of the users handsto potentially harmful, toxic, or otherwise undesirable substances.

These common approaches are also not ideally suited for applyingsubstances to curved or discontinuous surfaces requiring protection ofthe user's hand. In addition, the prior devices are inadequate to coverdifficult to reach areas. Moreover, these common approaches frequentlyrequire multiple devices to perform complementary tasks such ascleaning, polishing, drying, coloring, and/or buffing surfaces. Such acombination of benefits is lacking in present day application systems.

Various attempts have been made to create an applicator for applying asubstance to a target surface. For instance, U.S. Pat. No. 3,883,897,issued to Lefkowitz, discloses a glove to apply substances. However, useof this device does not provide multiple surfaces to dry or polish thesurface after application of the substance. Specifically, the user wouldneed a separate device to dry or polish the surface after the substancehas been applied. Moreover, the relatively complex tube distributionsystem would male this device relatively expensive to produce. Thisdevice also does not seem to protect a user's forearm and does not havean optimal shape for applying substances to a target surface.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,145,155, issued to James, discloses a mitt with pads toabsorb substances. However, the amount of substance this device canapply is limited to the absorption qualities of the pads. This would belimiting when using substances such as very thick paint that is noteasily absorbed. This device also does not seem to protect a user'sforearm and does not have an optimal shape for applying substances to atarget surface.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,588,961, issued to Lafosse-Marin, discloses a mitt witha reservoir to dispense substances. However, the reservoir is limited tothe substance contained in the “sealed, fully-enclosed reservoir” thatruptures upon application and the absorption qualities of the materialused to construct the device. This device also does not seem to protecta user's forearm and does not have an optimal shape for applyingsubstances to a target surface.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,008,969, issued to Jarrett discloses a multi-layeredcloth mitten for wiping surfaces. However, the amount of substance thisdevice can apply to a target surface is limited to the absorptionqualities of the material used. This device also does not seem toprotect a user's forearm and does not have an optimal shape for applyingsubstances to a target surface.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,192,543 B1, issued to Lee discloses a mitt with a mildcleaning surface and a more abrasive cleaning surface. However, theamount of substance this device can apply to a target surface is limitedto the absorption qualities of the material used. This device also doesnot seem to protect a user's forearm and does not have an optimal shapefor applying substances to a target surface.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,732,716 issued to Utecht discloses a personal protectionapparatus that is used for placing over the hands of the user to providemedical treatment while protecting the user from infectious disease,bacteria, microorganisms, viruses, spores and other hazardouscontaminants. However, the amount of substance this device can apply toa target surface is limited to the absorption qualities of the materialused. This device also does not seem to protect a user's forearm anddoes not have an optimal shape for applying substances to a targetsurface.

Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide an applicator for applyingvariable amounts of substance to an irregularly shaped target surface.It would also be desirable to provide such an applicator that permitsthe user to apply a substance to a target surface, and also to dry orpolish the surface with the same applicator. Additionally, it would bedesirable to provide such an applicator that has a cost low enough thatit would be disposable to enable easy clean up. Finally, it would bedesirable to have an applicator in a shape that promotes the efficientuse of a user's hand to apply substances to a target surface. Moreover,it would be desirable to have an applicator that provides protection tomore body parts than the user's hand.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A mitt applicator is provided for the distribution of a substance onto atarget surface. The applicator comprises a substantially planarapplicator body having a front panel and back panel joined near theirperiphery as to define a cavity for either a right or left human hand.Each panel can be composed of multiple layers. A reservoir for variableamounts of substances is formed by a pocket formed by at least one ofthe panels.

The outer most layer of the mitt is composed of the outer most layer ofboth the front panel and back panel. Each panel of this outer layer canbe composed of different materials, which would give added functionalityto the mitt. If desired, the mitt can have a single layer or multiplelayers. The inner most layer of the mitt is composed of the inner mostlayer of both the front panel and back panel. These inner panels can becomposed of the same material. This inner layer of the mitt forms theinside of the mitt. The inner layer can be impervious to liquid or gelsubstances in order to protect the user's hand.

A method for making the above applicator is provided by first, creatingthe front and back panels. In the preferred embodiment, each panel iscreated by layering at least two sheets of the desired materialtogether. In other embodiments, a single sheet or multiple sheets can beused to create each panel. Second, a dimple can be formed from the outerlayer, which serves as a reservoir. Alternatively the reservoir can beenhanced by adding a piece of semi-rigid plastic or other similarmaterial to form a pocket. Moreover, multiple layers can have dimples toform a reservoir. Third, the front and back panels are disposed in agenerally opposing manner and the panels are cut into the desired shape.Finally, the front and back panels are joined near their periphery so asto define a single cavity there between of sufficient shape and size toaccommodate either a right or left human hand. The resulting mitt isthen turned inside out and in order to hide the seam and the mitt isthen ready for use.

A method for applying a liquid or gel to a target surface using theabove applicator is provided. Specifically, the user's palm scoops theliquid or gel using the applicator's reservoir. The user then directlyapplies the liquid or gel onto the target surface. The user may also useuncoated surfaces of the mitt to clean, polish or dry the target surfacebefore or after the liquid or gel is applied.

Another disclosure is a method for applying a liquid or gel to a patientby a caregiver using the above applicator. The applicator would bedipped in a liquid or gel and then rub the patient with the mitt. Thecaregiver would be able to remove her hand from the mitt while keepingpressure on the patient. This would be accomplished by inserting herother hand into the mitt or another caregiver would be able to inserther hand into the mitt.

Also disclosed is a mitt that has a radial shape on the mitt's distalend to accommodate the user's hand. This radial shape at the distal endis designed to fit the shape of a user's hand when the user spreads herfingers apart to the maximum extent. This provides a mitt that isefficient in applying or wiping substances on a target surface. Yetanother disclosure is a mitt that has an elongated body that extends atleast to the midpoint of a user's forearm. This elongated body providesprotection for more than just the user's hand and wrist.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a plan view of the top of a preferred embodiment, in the formof a mitt.

FIG. 2 is a plan view of the bottom of a preferred embodiment, in theform of a mitt.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment, which is aview of FIG. 2 about the line a-a. Line b-b illustrates the front panel48 and back panel 44 about that line.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment, in the form ofa mitt.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment, in the form ofa mitt rubbing against a surface.

FIG. 6 is a side view of the preferred embodiment, which is a view ofFIG. 2 about line a-a.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The industrial applicability of this patent may be to paint fences.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

As used herein, the term “mitt” refers to a covering for the user's handand arm up to at least the midpoint of the user's forearm. As usedherein, the term “absorb” refers to the penetration of one substanceinto the mass of another. ASTM standard test method D2654-89a “StandardTest Methods for Moisture in Textiles,” should be used to determine thepercentage of a liquid, such as water, absorbed and retained. Anabsorbent material for the purposes of the present invention has amoisture regain according to the ASTM standard test method D2654-89a ofgreater than about 5% (e.g., a cellulose acetate fiber having a moistureregain of about 6.5%). A non-absorbent fiber for the purposes of thepresent invention, however, has a moisture regain of less than about 5%(e.g., a polyester fiber having a moisture regain of about 4%). As usedherein the term “substantially non-absorbent” is defined as a materialcomposed of a majority of non-absorbent fibers or webs. As used hereinthe term “substantially absorbent” is defined as a material composed ofa majority of absorbent fibers or webs.

Referring now to the drawings, the invention will be described in apreferred embodiment by reference to the numbers of the drawing figureswherein like numbers indicate like parts.

Applicator Construction and Operation

A representative embodiment of a mitt applicator of the presentinvention in the form of a hand article is the disposable mitt 20 shownin FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a top plan view of the mitt in its flat-out stateillustrating the cuff 24.

FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of the mitt in its flat-out state. FIG. 2illustrates the seam 32, the reservoir 28 and the cuff 24. Mitt 20 hasan internal cavity for the user that is accessible through an opening inthe cuff portion and that extends inwardly toward the end of mitt 20that is sealed.

FIG. 3 shows the construction details of an embodiment of mitt 20, morespecifically via a view taken along line a-a. FIG. 3 shows mitt 20 withthe front and back panels already connected. The front panel 48 and backpanel 44 are connected about line b-b which is seam 32. FIG. 3. alsoshows that front panel 48 and back panel 44 are connected together todefine a cavity into which a hand may be inserted through an opening incuff 24. These panels consist of at least one layer of material, but inthis embodiment, there are two layers of material that compose eachpanel. When the panels are joined on seam 32, reference to the outerlayer of the mitt will be outer layer 40. Outer layer 40 will refer tothe outer layer on both front panel 48 and back panel 44. Also, when thepanels are joined on seam 32, reference to the inner layer of the mittwill be inner layer 36. Inner layer 36 will likewise refer to the innerlayers of both the front panel 48 and the back panel 44.

Outer most panel 37 will refer to the outer most layer of front panel 48and outer most panel 38 will refer to the outer most layer of the backpanel 44. These two panels can be made of different material to suitethe nature of the desired use.

Each layer can also be made from different pieces of fabric joinedtogether to form a panel. For instance, outer most panel 37 would beformed from one piece of material that is smooth and another that isrough. These materials would be joined and would form a single panel sothat the surface of front panel 48 has both a smooth and rough surface.

FIG. 3 also illustrates Reservoir 28, which is also illustrated in FIG.2 and FIG. 4 and FIG. 6. Reservoir 28 is formed by creating a pocketwith extra material from at least one of the panels so the user canscoop variable amounts of liquids or gels with her palm. This pocket canbe formed by leaving excess material in the desired position of thedimple before the sheets are cut. Specifically, in this embodiment,outer layer 36 and inner layer 40 or whatever number of layers isdecided to be appropriate, can be pinched in the desired position of thereservoir, thus an excess amount of material would be available to forma pocket once the layers are cut and joined. Besides pinching thematerial, this pocket may be formed in any other way known to thoseskilled in the art. Additionally, the reservoir's shape can be enhancedby insertion of a rigid or semi-rigid piece of material such as aplastic cup shaped to conform to the user's palm. Once the dimple isformed, the layers are then cut into the desired shape. Back panel 44and front panel 48 are then connected along their periphery on seam 32.This connection can be done by stitching or other bonding methods. Backpanel 44 is created in a similar manner and can also include areservoir.

An alternate method of forming the reservoir may be to use materialsthat may be molded or otherwise changes shape when heat is applied tothem. Specifically, the layer may be made of a heat moldable materialand cut and bonded together. Then heat may be applied to the area thereservoir is desired in and then shaped appropriately.

An elastic cuff 24 may be attached to the mitt to help increaseretention to the user's hand. In addition, other adhesives or othermechanical fastener tapes, such as a hook and loop system can be used tosecure the mitt 20 to the user's hand. Also, elastic or fasteners can beattached to different points of the mitt to aid in retention about awearer's hand and/or wrist and/or forearm. For instance a mitt thatextends to the midpoint of a user's forearm and has an elastic cuff atthe wrist and at the midpoint of the user's forearm. Once the retentionmechanism is attached, the mitt is turned inside out in order to hidethe seam and the mitt is ready for use.

In use, a user of the mitt 20 inserts a hand into the hollow interiorthrough the provided opening at cuff 24 wherein back panel 44 covers theback of the user's hand and front panel 48 covers the user's palm. Asthe construction of the mitt 20 is more generic than a glove withdefined anatomically conforming geometry, the mitt may be used witheither hand. The mitt may even be constructed so that two hands may beinserted in order for the user to apply additional pressure to thetarget surface. Additionally, an added benefit from this generic designis that the user can reverse the mitt without taking the mitt off of herhand. Specifically, back panel 44 would now cover the user's palm whilefront panel 48 would cover the back of the user's hand. This would beadvantageous when the front and back panels are made from differentmaterials which would enable the mitt to accomplish different taskswhile remaining on user's predominate hand.

The mitt can have a radial shape at the distal end. This radial shapeprovides a shape to accommodate the user's hand when the user's fingersare spread apart. This provides a large surface area for applyingsubstances to the target surface. However, any shape can be used that isknown to those skilled in the art.

Also, the mitt can also have an elongated body. In one embodiment, thebody extends to at least the midpoint of the user's elbow. This wouldprotect a large part of the user's forearm from substances and not justher hand and wrist. In one embodiment, elastic cuffs are be provided atdifferent areas of the body to secure the mitt to the user's hand, wristand forearm. For instance, one cuff may be placed at the opening of thecavity which would contact the user's forearm, and another may be placedat the user's wrist to enhance the mitt's retention to the user.

One use for the mitt is painting an irregular surface like a chain linkfence or a fence composed of round fence posts with checkered surfaces.Once the user puts the mitt on by inserting one or both of her hands inthe mitt, the user would insert the mitt in a bucket of paint. As theuser pulls her hand out of the paint, she uses her palm to form a scoop.This scoop shape of the user's hand would conform to the reservoir 28and would allow a relatively large amount of paint to be held by themitt. Alternately, instead of a bucket, a squirt bottle or otherdelivery system can be used to deliver the paint to the reservoir. Oncethe reservoir has the desired amount of paint, the user would then rubit directly to the target surface. The mitt's flexible construction andrelatively large amount of paint that could be carried by the reservoirwould enable the user to paint irregularly shaped surfaces efficientlyas illustrated in FIG. 5. Once the mitt has touched the target surface,the user then uses her hand to rub the paint in the desired manner. Thismethod of application has several advantages over traditionalapplication methods such as a brush. For instance, since the mitt ismade from flexible materials, the user's hand can apply pressure so themitt conforms to the irregularly shaped target surface. In turn, theirregularly shaped target surface is then coated in the desired mannerwith the paint. This method of application can also deliver more paintto a target surface then traditional methods via use of the reservoir.Moreover, the application method is intuitive as the user uses her handsto apply the paint instead of a traditional roller or brush. This wouldmake application of paint to an irregularly shaped surface moreefficient for a novice user. Additionally, the mitt provides protectionto at least the user's hand and forearm from the potentially harmfulpaint that is being applied. Additionally, in another embodiment, thedistal end of the mitt has a radial shape which maximizes the surfacearea a user can apply the paint to. For instance, the radial shapeaccommodates a user's hand when the user spreads her fingers out to themaximum extent. This maximizes the surface area that the user would beable to apply pressure to and create a more efficient surface in whichthe user can apply paint.

The mitt also facilitates clean and easy disposal of itself.Specifically, at the end of its use, the mitt can be inverted by makinga fist with the mitt-hand, pulling the mitt over the fist from the cuff24 of the mitt 20. Thus the layers are transposed, and the inner surfaceof the front panel 48 and the inner surface of the back panel 44 becomethe outer surfaces of the now waste article. More simply stated, themitt is turned inside out after its use and then thrown away. That is,the wearer makes a fist, and with his or her other hand, grasps a pointon the cuff region and carefully pulls the fisted hand toward the openmouth of the mitt, until the entire end of the mitt is pulled throughthe cuff. Unlike traditional paint application methods in which theapplicator requires cleaning, the mitt in this embodiment is can be usedonce, and then disposed of in a clean and fast method.

A mitt applicator of the present invention may be constructed for manydifferent uses. One such use is to apply gels or liquids to irregularlyshaped surfaces where conventional applicators like rollers areineffective. As an added result of the present invention, the applicatorprovides convenience not only because it may coat multiple irregularlyshaped surfaces with liquids or gels, but it can also performcomplementary tasks such as cleaning, polishing, drying, coloring,and/or buffing surfaces. These additional functions are accomplished byusing uncoated surfaces of the mitt such as the side opposite thereservoir. This functionality is enabled by the mitt's ability to beworn by the user's predominant hand with either the front panel or backpanel being exposed to the target surface. Specifically, the mitt isconstructed so that unlike a glove, which requires the user to wear iton either a left or right hand, the mitt has no limitations on whichhand it can be worn on. Moreover, once one side of the mitt is soiled,the mitt can be flipped over without removing one's hand from the mittso that the opposite can be used for another task. Being able to flipthe mitt over in this manner enhances the cleanliness of use and reducesthe number of implements needed for a particular task. Another advantageof being able to flip the mitt over, is that the front and back panelscould be made from different material. For instance, the outer mostpanel 37 could be made from material specially adapted to spread theliquid or gel and the outer most panel 38 would be made from materialspecially adapted to absorb excess liquid or gel.

Another advantage of the present invention is that it can be storedindividually, or placed and stacked in containers, folded or unfolded.As such, they occupy little space and can be stored in small areas,which improves convenience for the users. Such a combination of benefitsis lacking in present day application systems. The combination of easystorage and ability to apply liquids and gels on irregular shapedsurfaces such as chain linked fences makes this invention ideal for usewhere conventional applicators are ineffective, inconvenient andrelatively expensive.

Reservoir

In one embodiment, reservoir 28 is composed from outer layer 36 and alsoinner layer 40 but in another embodiment, reservoir 28 is composed fromonly the outer layer 36. Reservoir 28 forms a pocket by adding extracloth to form a dimple during the manufacturing process before outerlayer 36 and inner layer 40 are cut and bonded at scam 32. Additionally,a rigid or semi-rigid piece of material can be added to enhance thereservoir's shape. Reservoir 28 is intended to be in a position on mitt20, which allows a user's palm to conform to the reservoir 28. Reservoir28 allows a user's palm to scoop liquids or gels in variable amountsbefore application to the target surface Reservoir 28 may be of anysuitable size, configuration, and composition for the intended liquid orgel to applied to the target surface. The substance that could beapplied by reservoir 28 is not limited to just liquids or gels, butlotions, creams, medications, powders or even solids. For instance, asolid substance such as a wax, for example may be heated to provide aflowable product that may be dispensed by reservoir 28. Moreover, in amedical context, the reservoir may be used to hold large amounts ofgauze or other medical object to treat wounds.

In one embodiment, reservoir 28 can improve the overall functionality ofmitt 20 through the increased amount of product that can be applied byusing the reservoir. For example, the user would insert her hand intomitt 20 and scoop the desired amount of product by placing the palm ofher hand so that it conforms to the inside of the dimple that formsreservoir 28. Reservoir 28 thus allows mitt 20 to apply more liquid orgel to the target surface than a mitt without a reservoir.

In the embodiment of FIG. 1, reservoir 28 is positioned in a centralposition of mitt 20. This central location of reservoir 28 allows for anomnidirectional dispensing or application of the liquid or gel. In thislocation, the product scooped in reservoir 28 by the user's hand can beforcibly applied by pressing the palm of her hand against the targetsurface and then rubbing to coat the target surface in the desiredmanner. This location of reservoir 28 is convenient for applicationswhere it is desired for the product to be dispensed in large qualitiesbecause the central location of the reservoir permits a large volume ofliquid or gel to be held by the mitt. It may also be desired to have thereservoir located in a portion of the applicator that is spaced orremote from a location where forces are applied during cleaning orrubbing. This may be the case for tasks that require intense rubbing andless liquid or gel needs to be applied. For example, an alternativeembodiment of mitt 20 wherein the reservoir 28 can be positioned closerto cuff 24. In this location, the reservoir 28 is not located in aregion of the mitt that would typically encounter forces in use. Aliquid or gel would be introduced into the reservoir by squirt bottle orsimilar delivery system. The liquid or gel would then be dispensed fromreservoir 28 by the user moving her hand within the mitt to specificallyapplying force to the cuff region. Such an embodiment may beparticularly advantageous where progressive dispensing of discretequantities of the product is desired rather than an “all at once”dispensing upon application of an initial force.

The Outer Layer

In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, outer layer36 forms the outermost layer of the mitt. In this embodiment, the outerlayer is composed of the outermost layers of front panel 48, and backpanel 44. The outermost layer of the front panel 48 will be called outermost panel 37 and the outer most layer of the back panel will be calledouter most panel 38. Here, the panels may be made from differentmaterials. This would allow multiple uses of mitt 20. For instance, useof a relatively non-absorbent material on outer most panel 37 to containa liquid or gel allows the applicator's reservoir to efficiently spreadliquid or gel and not retain an excess quality, while the material onouter most panel 38 would remain available to dry, polish or buff or doany other task that would be used by a person skilled in the art to thesurface because it is composed of a relatively absorbent material. Inaddition to drying, the outermost surface of the opposite side of themitt can remain unsoiled and be used to for many purposes such ascleaning the target surface before or after product is applied by outermost panel 37. Thus, a single device can be used for multiple uses knownto those skilled in the art.

For example, outer most panel 37 should be made from material that ispreferably comprised of a material that is substantially non absorbentof the liquid or gel, on which the product is placed in reservoir 28 andthen dispensed. After the product has been dispensed and dispersed ontothe target surface, for example, it is sometimes desirable to absorb andremove excess product, contaminates and/or particles from the targetsurface while minimizing filming, streaking and/or residuals.Accordingly, outer most panel 38 can be made from a material that isdifferent than outer most panel 37. Specifically, it may be desired thatouter most panel 38 be made from material that is substantiallyabsorbent for the product of interest. For example, outer most panel 38may be constructed of absorbent fibers that swell when exposed to theliquid or gel. Examples of absorbent fibers include man-made fibersderived from cellulose (e.g., rayon, cellulose acetate, cellulosetriacetate) and natural cellulose fibers (e.g., from trees). Otherexamples of absorbent materials include particles and fibers made fromsuper-absorbent polymers (e.g., cross-linked copolymers of acrylic acid)that can be incorporated into the outer most panel 38. Additionally, orin the alternative, outer most panel 38 may be constructed of non-woven,apertured films, absorbent or fibrous absorbent materials, superabsorbent polymer fibers or powders, laminates, a selectively aperturedcomposite material and/or combinations thereof. Absorbent non-wovens maybe made by methods such as spunlace, spunbound, meltblown, carded,air-laid, and hydroentangled.

As described above, one side of the applicator may be designed with amajority of non-absorbent fibers (termed “substantially non-absorbent”)and the other side may be designed with a majority of absorbent fibers(termed “substantially absorbent”), or a film. In the context of theinvention, these terms are relative to one another. Depending upon thespecific application, the product to be spread, the environmentalconditions, and the benefits sought, the amount of product that thesubstantially absorbent side absorbs and the amount of product thesubstantially non-absorbent side absorbs will not be constant. Rather,the substantially absorbent side will have a relatively higher absorbentcapacity than the substantially non-absorbent side for the particularproduct. The ratio of the absorbent capacity of the substantiallyabsorbent side to the absorbent capacity of the substantiallynon-absorbent side is greater than one, preferably greater than two, andmore preferably greater than four.

In some embodiments, the mitt 20 can have multiple layers on the frontpanel 48 and the back panel 44 to provide additional application and/orpolishing surfaces. Preferably, additional layers can be heat sealedonly to the perimeter and sealed in such a way that the layer ispeelable. However, layers may be attached and removed by other methodssuch as perforations, peelable adhesives, and the like. The additionallayers are intended to be removed without tearing of the applicator. Thelayers can be slightly offset at the cuff region 24, or additionalmaterial such as tabs may protrude from the layer, making it easier forthe user to remove one layer at a time. Peelable heat seals may beaccomplished by heat sealing the individual layers at a lowertemperature or with less seal time such that a peelable seal occurs. Anexample of how peelable layers can be used, is when a user applies shoepolish. During application of the polish, front panel 48 can becomesoiled to an undesirable level after the polish is applied. To overcomethis, an extra layer(s) of a non-woven material, could be used under thefront panel 48 allowing the user to peel off the soiled layer,delivering a new, clean polishing layer allowing the user to continuepolishing to the desired sheen. Similarly, the absorbent back panel 44could have multiple layers of an absorbent paper towel such asBounty.RTM. Towel made by The Procter & Gamble Company. When this outerlayer becomes unusable, the outer layer also could be peeled away,exposing a new clean layer to buff the shoe.

In another embodiment, the outer layer may be the only layer. Forexample a mitt is be formed that was created from a single layer ofmaterial. Alternately, in another embodiment, a single layer of materialcould be initially formed into a mitt. Then the inside or outside of themitt would be sprayed with different substances such as a plastic togive the mitt different properties. Thus, this mitt would be createdfrom a single piece of fabric but would have different layers ofmaterials on that initial single layer of fabric. This technique couldalso be applied to multiple layers of material.

Between the First and Inner Layers

The outer surface of the inner layer 50 (FIG. 3) and the inner surfaceof the outer layer 51 may be optionally provided with friction-enhancingelements or coatings to prevent slippage between the outer layer 36 andinner layer 40 when the user applies pressure to the target surface. Thefriction-enhancing elements or coatings on the outer surface of theinner layer 50, for example, may reduce the likelihood of the mittrolling or rotating of the mitt upon the hand when the frictional forcesbetween outer layer 36 and the increasingly dry target surface escalate.The coating can also be applied in a foamed state such as by theaddition of physical blowing agents such as nitrogen and/or carbondioxide. In addition to slot coating, suitable materials can be applied(foamed or unfoamed) in one or more of an array of lines, spirals, spotsand/or any other patterned network, by spraying, printing, or byadhesively or otherwise securing separate preformed elements. Inaddition, tape or mechanical fasteners may also be used to preventunwanted slippage. This technique could also be applied in a similarmanner to mitt created from more than two layers of material.

Between the User's Hand and the Inner Layer

In one embodiment, an inner surface, such as the inner surface of innerlayer 40, may have a friction-enhancing element that has a highercoefficient of friction between its surface and the wearer's hand thanthe coefficient of friction between the outer surface of the outer layer36 and the target surface. A friction-enhancing element in thisembodiment would preferably be a coating that delivers a highcoefficient of friction between a wearer's hand and the inner surface ofinner layer 40 of the mitt 20 such that the mitt 20 does not slip orrotate on the hand when contacting the target surface.

The Inner Layer

In order to protect the hand of the user from contact with the liquid orgel during the dispensing and/or dispersing operation, the mitts of thepresent invention can include an inner layer 40 to server as a barrierlayer, the interior of which defines the surface that faces the user'shand during use. Inner layer 40 is preferably impervious to the productcontained in reservoir 28. Suitable barrier materials include polymerfilms, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, EVA, and polymer blends orco-extrusions. Materials that are embossed, whether or not extensible,provide improved tactile properties and greater control over theapplicator in terms of contact and coefficient of friction with thehand. Preferably, the material and the surface are made such that thecoefficient of friction between the inner surface of inner layer 40 anda user's hand is greater than the coefficient of friction between theouter surface of outer layer 36 and the target surface. This reduces thelikelihood that the mitt 20 may slip or rotate inadvertently in use.Inner layer 40 can also be combined with a “softness enhancing” materialthat provides additional comfort, softness and tactile feel to theuser's hand. Such materials can include, but are not limited to, fibrous(natural, synthetic or combinations thereof) and/or foamed materials.

EXAMPLE 1

A painting mitt used to paint a chain link fence or a fence made ofround posts with checkered surfaces may be made in accordance with thepresent invention. The painting mitt can consist of a multiple layermitt. The inner layer, which is composed of inner layer 40 is the onlylayer in contact with a user's hand or fingers during use and in thisembodiment is impermeable to the substance being applied. An outer layer36 is also provided in this embodiment.

Outer most panel 37 is provided as a non-woven embossed substrate withspecific properties for enhanced use as the external layer of thedelivery system. Properties of the non-woven substrate for the deliverysystem side could be a) hydrophobic, b) or sufficient strength fordurability during scrubbing c) sufficient space within the embossedpattern to allow proper substance delivery onto the surface. Thereservoir 28 on the surface of outer most panel 37, would be used by theuser's palm to scoop the appropriate amount of paint.

Having the panels made of different material would provide differentmaterial qualities for the appropriate task. For instance, outer mostpanel 37 is composed of material that is non-absorbent to the paint.This would allow a relatively large amount of paint to be scooped andapplied with a minimal amount wasted in excess paint being absorbed bythe surfaces exposed to the paint. Outer most panel 38 is then composedof material that is absorbent to paint. This would allow a user to usethat portion of the mitt for a task other than apply paint such asabsorbing excess paint off the target surface.

Additionally, the inner surface of outer layer 51 and outer surface ofinner layer 50 could be coated with a surface to increase frictionbetween the two surfaces. This would help the mitt 20 in retaining itsintegrity during paint application or pain drying. Also, the innersurface of inner layer 40 could be coated with a softness enhancingmaterial to enhance comfort.

The use of the mitt to paint the chain link fence or rounded post fencewith checked surfaces would be as follows. First, the user would put herhand in the glove and cup the reservoir side with her hand. Second, theuser would either dip her hand in paint and scoop the paint out usingthe reservoir, or use another delivery system such as a squirt bottle toload the reservoir with paint. At this stage, the user's hand isprotected from the potentially harmful paint by inner layer 40 while thematerial composing the reservoir contains the paint without absorbing anexcess amount of paint to prevent waste. Third, the user would then usethe mitt to contact the target surface. Fourth, the user would then rubto coat the target surface in the desired manner. Rubbing theirregularly shaped surface with the mitt has several advantages overtraditional applicators. First, the method is intuitive even to thenovice user as all the user must do is rub the surface wearing the mitton her hand as if she were rubbing the surface with her had alone. Theflexible nature of the mitt allows the paint-coated mitt to conform tothe irregularly shaped surface, which ensures coating on all surfaces.Moreover, the reservoir allows the user to apply large amounts of paintvery efficiently and quickly.

Fifth, the user may flip over to use the side of the mitt that has notbeen exposed to the paint in order to accomplish another task. Such atask may be to absorb excess paint from the target surface. Other tasksmay be to spread the paint with the clean surface of the side oppositethe reservoir or other tasks known to those skilled in the art. Finally,in order to dispose of the mitt, the user does not have to clean themitt. The user simply has to make a fist while grasping inner layer 40and pull the cuff off her hand. This turns the mitt inside out withoutthe user having to make contact with a soiled surface of the mitt. Themitt can now be handled with the user's bare hands and disposed ofwithout contact to the potentially harmful paint.

EXAMPLE 2

Another example of an applicator made in accordance with the presentinvention is a mitt provided for cleaning, and shining liquids or gelsonto a target surface such as applying polish and buffing a leathershoe. The application of liquids or gels for these purposes would beenhanced by reservoir 28 to enable the user's palm to scoop and applyvariable amounts of gels or liquids. Outer most panel 37 may becomprised of a synthetic woven, synthetic knit, non-woven, aperturedfilm, macroscopically expanded three-dimensional formed film, absorbentor fibrous absorbent material, foam, or laminates and/or combinationsthereof. The non-wovens may be made by, but not limited to, one of thefollowing methods: spunlace, spunbound, meltblown, carded, air-laid, andhydroentangled. One such material sufficient in durability and strengthto provide a cleaning surface is a spunbound polypropylene non-wovensuch as from BBA Non-woven of Simpsonville, S.C. Other structures suchas hydroentangled materials comprising cellulose, rayon and polyestermay also be used. One such set of materials are made by DexterCorporation of Windsor Locks, Conn. and sold under the trade nameHydraspun.RTM. One skilled in the art will understand that a wide rangeof materials can be used as long as the material of interest providesthe required durability to complete the cleaning task.

Once, the user has put the mitt on by inserting her hand with thereservoir cupped in her palm, the user will scoop the desired amount ofliquid or gel into the reservoir or use an alternate delivery method.The user should then directly apply the liquid or gel to the targetsurface. Once the liquid or gel is applied, the user can then rub theproduct in the desired fashion to ensure even coating. An advantage ofthis embodiment is that the mitt's flexible structure coupled with theuser's hand can conform to coat irregularly shaped surfaces quickly andefficiently. Moreover, the direct pressure of the hand on the mittapplied to the target surface ensures that the user can apply variableamounts of pressure to coat hard to reach surfaces as desired. Moreover,the use of the mitt is more intuitive than traditional applicationdevices since the method of application is similar to rubbing the targetsurface with one's hand.

The barrier layer composed of inner layer 40 can be textured by anymeans known in the art, including but not limited to, embossing,ring-rolling, and incremental staining, and may also be renderedextensible. The barrier layer can be combined with another “softnessenhancing” material that provides additional comfort, softness andtactile feel to the user's hand on the inner surface of the mitt. Suchmaterials can include, but are not limited to, fibrous (natural,synthetic, or combination thereof) or foamed materials.

Outer most panel 38, could be composed of a substantially absorbentmaterial. Outer most panel 38 might be utilized to provide a distinctsurface for removing and absorbing residual product and dirt left on theplastic, vinyl, or rubber after cleaning with outer most panel 37. Asdescribed above for the barrier layer, this material can also betextured by any method known in the art and/or rendered extensible. Forinstance, once the user has applied the liquid or gel using outer mostpanel 37, the user may wish to buff or polish the target surface. Thiscan be accomplished without taking the user's hand out of the mitt bysimply flipping mitt 20 over and buffing or polishing the target surfacewith outer most panel 38 which is unsoiled. Outer most panel 38 could bemade of a material particularly designed for buffing or polishinginstead of a material designed for efficient application of liquids orgels.

Like in Example 1, when the user is finished with the mitt, disposal isclean and easy. First, the user grasps the inner layer of the mitt bymaking a fist and then pulls cuff 24 away from her. This turns the mittinside out and the mitt is now ready for disposal. At this stage, thepotentially harmful substances applied are safely separated by innerlayer 40 and the mitt is ready to be disposed of.

The mitt can be used for polishing or cleaning surfaces including butnot limited to, vinyl and other plastic car interior surfaces (i.e.dashboards, door panels, trim, consoles, plastic seats, etc.), and vinyland other plastic car exterior surfaces (i.e. bumpers, trim, vinyl tops,moldings, etc.), rubber automobile tires, as well as, other vinyl andplastic surfaces such as indoor and outdoor furniture, luggage, and thelike. The mitts are ideally suited for cleaning curved or other surfaceswith jagged edges or tough to reach areas and can be storedindividually, or placed and stacked in containers, folded or unfolded.The combination of easy storage and ability to polish tough to reachareas such as car dashboards, consoles, and trim, makes them ideal foruse.

EXAMPLE 3

Yet another example of an applicator made in accordance with the presentinvention is a mitt provided for a caregiver to provide medical care toa patient while being protected from potentially harmful substances likethe patient's blood. The method may include the steps of; 1) thecaregiver inserting one or both hands in the mitt; 2) applying amedication and/or gauze to the mitt using the reservoir; 3) placing themitt on the patient; 4) the caregiver removing one hand whilemaintaining the mitt's contact with the patient with her other hand inthe mitt; and 5) turning the mitt inside out to enclose the surface ofthe mitt that was in contact with the patient for safe disposal. A stepthat might also be included are inserting a second caregiver's hand oreven the patient's hand into the mitt which releases the first caregiverto do other tasks while keeping the mitt in contact with the patient.Another step that may also be included is the first caregiverreinserting her hand into the mitt after completing the other tasks.

In this particular embodiment, the mitt's inner layer 40 is constructedfrom a thin film of microporous material that prohibits the passage ofcontaminants including blood-born pathogens, micro-organisms, bacteria,viruses, spores and other hazardous contaminants. This protects thecaregiver from these potentially harmful substances. The film may bedevoid of pores. The film may be of any suitable polymer that willprovide the necessary barrier. The thermoplastic rubber medical polymersmarketed by Shell Chemical Company under the name KRATON THERMOPLASTICRUBBER thermoplastic rubber medical polymer are suitable. These mayinclude unsaturated mid block styrene-butadiene-styrene copolymers aswell as styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene copolymers. The polymersidentified as KRATON G polymer are preferred. If a seam is present theseam should be of a similar barrier nature. In the medical context, theentirely of the mitt should be sterile.

Outer layer 36, of the mitt, should have appropriate properties to applythe desired liquid, gel, medication or other desired substance using thereservoir. The mitt could comprise a plurality of discrete layers ofmaterial superimposed over one another. The individual layers mayexhibit various special characteristics depending upon the use that isto be made of the mitt. For example, some layers may comprise anabsorbent material that may be a gel, a hydrogel, a hydrophobic web or anatural or synthetic fibrous material. For instance, in addition to afirst layer which provides appropriate properties to apply the desiredliquid or gel, there may be a second layer to contact the patientcomposed of may be a puncture-resistant, protective padding material,such as an elastomer, which is adapted to protect the user's hands frompuncture by sharp articles such as bits of glass and the like. Moreover,under that layer, there may be a third layer which would be composed ofthe thin film of microporous material that prohibits the passage ofcontaminants including blood-born pathogens, micro-organisms, bacteria,viruses, spores and other hazardous contaminants. This last layer wouldbe inner layer 40.

In this particular embodiment, the outer layer 36 may be made of a widevariety of different types of material so that the mitt may be used toserve as an applicator of topical medications, to clean up numeroustypes of contaminated materials and to retrieve and safely dispose ofvarious kinds of contaminated articles. Moreover, outer layer 36 may beconstructed and arranged to safely deal with a number of different typesof contaminants in differing media, including liquids, solids,semi-solids, pastes, micro-organisms, bacteria, viruses, tissue samplesand the like.

Like outer layer 36, inner layer 40 may also be constructed in a numberof different ways using a number of different types of materials. Forexample, inner layer 40 may comprise a single layer of film or acombination of one or more layers of film individually layered or bondedtogether by heat, adhesive, chemical reaction, or numerous otherattachment methods.

The film of inner layer 40 itself may be of various thickness and may beof metallic origin, polymeric origin, or it may be nylon, latex, rubber,polyethylene, urethane, natural or synthetic composites or anycombination of these materials including materials such as Shell Oil'sKraton and any grades and derivatives thereof. This may include blendsand may be of one or more layers. In summary, the materials used toconstruct the inner layer 40 may be any material or combination ofmaterials that has the property to substantially limit permeability ofliquids, viruses, spores, bacteria, or micro-organisms, so long as it isacceptable for human use and preferably is lint-free and flexible underextreme temperature variations.

An example of one type of film material suitable for use in constructinginner layer 40, is a material made by E. I. duPont de Nemours andCompany, and sold under the name and style HYTREL polymer. Anothersuitable material is a material manufactured and sold by Exxon under thename and style of TPE polymer. Other basic materials acceptable for usein construction of inner layer 40 for certain applications includeneoprene, polyethylene, polystyrenes, polysophones, polyisopene,polyvinyl, polyamide and numerous polymers including biodegradablepolymers such as MYLAR polymer, latex, nylon, butyl, silicone andacetate. Materials of the character identified should preferably be of acharacter to provide resistance to penetration and tearing, flexibilityin extreme temperature regimes, and, as previously discussed, bemicro-organism impermeable. The material should malleable and stretch atcold temperatures. The mitt could be constructed of multiple layers ofmaterial instead of a single layer. Two or more layers or materialscould be combined to produce different features. The layers can besealed by electronic stitching mechanism without pinholes. The sealshould be able withstand an extreme temperature range without pinholes.Additionally, for certain applications, it is preferable that thematerial be transparent or translucent and be substantially resistant toultraviolet radiation.

It is also understood that the films used to construct inner layer 40 orouter layer 36 may be films or components that are coated, orimpregnated with one or more chemical or pharmaceutical agents orsubstances capable of neutralizing or adjusting the acid or pH levels,disinfecting, deodorizing and delivering a pharmaceutical agent to thepatient.

A unique feature of the device of this embodiment is the fact that theinterior chamber of the device is sufficiently large to accommodate asecond hand, whether it be the second hand of the caregiver, the hand ofthe patient, or the hand of a third party bystander. When necessary, thecaregiver may later reinsert his hand into the device and the patient orthird party bystander may remove his or her hand therefrom. This highlyimportant aspect of the invention permits the device to always remainwith the patient rather than with the caregiver, thereby effectivelypreventing spread of contamination.

Using the device in the right hand, the care giver may provide treatmentto the patient, perform clean up of a contaminated surface, or retrievea contaminated article using the reservoir as either a scoop or agrasping surface. Like in Examples 1 and 2, the reservoir can be filledwith the desired substance such as a medication and applied efficientlyand quickly to a patient. The reservoir can be filled by the userconforming her palm to the reservoir and scooping the desired substanceor an alternate delivery method such as a squirt bottle can be used.Additionally, the reservoir may be an appropriate place to mixmedications to be applied. Specifically, one medication can be added tothe reservoir and other medications can be included and mixed as desiredand then applied to the patient. This provides a convenient place to mixthe medications for immediate patient use. The substances can then beapplied by rubbing the mitt with the target surface in the desiredfashion. Since the mitt conforms to the user's hands, the mitt canquickly and efficiently coat the patent with the substances in hard toreach places.

Disposal of the mitt can be done like in Examples 1 and 2. Specifically,when the user is finished with the mitt, disposal is clean and easy.First, the user grasps the inner layer of the mitt by making a fist andthen pulls cuff 24 away from her. This turns the mitt inside out and themitt is now ready for disposal. At this stage, the potentially harmfulsubstances applied are safely separated by inner layer 40 and the mittis ready to be disposed of. This last feature is of particularimportance in the medical context as to provide protection for thecaregiver from potentially harmful bodily fluids and the like as thesubstances are not encapsulated with the mitt.

It is to be appreciated that at no time during the process described hasthe hands of the caregiver come in contact with the contaminates carriedby the mitt.

The mitt may have a laminate construction made up of a layer of sponge,a layer of gauze and a layer of absorbent material. Each side of themitt may have different properties to suit the desired tasks. Forinstance, one side of outer layer 36 may be composed of material that ishighly absorbent to enable it to readily absorb liquids and semi-solids.Specifically, the side may be constructed of an absorbent material suchas a sponge or foam. The opposite side may be composed of the same ordifferent material, depending on the desired use.

In practice, the device may be provided with a wide variety ofidentification indicia such as color coding, bar coding and like codingto identify the intended uses of the particular device and to designatethe types of medicaments and pharmaceuticals contained within theengaging mechanism. Other medical coding of the devices may beaccomplished through the use of various schemes well known in the artsuch as striping and other marking indicia which are preferablycorrectable with use instructions and content labels provided onpackaging containers used to package the device of the invention.

EXAMPLE 4

Another example of the applicator made in accordance with the presentinvention is a mitt with an elongated body and a radially shapedapplication surface. The elongated body is formed by using longer panelsof material to form the mitt. In this embodiment, the elongated bodyprovides protection for the user's arm up to at least the midpoint ofthe user's forearm. This will provide enhanced protection to the user,as it is likely that the substances being applied will drip or otherwisecome in contact with the user's forearm. In addition the longer bodyhelps the user in retaining the mitt. In other embodiments, the lengthof the panels can be varied to cover different portions of the user'shand, wrist, forearm or even upper arm.

Also included is a radially shaped application surface. This surface isroughly at the center of the reservoir. It is a circular surface whichaccommodates the user's hand when the user's fingers are spread out.This maximizes the amount of useable surface area when the user has themitt on.

Yet another disclosure is a mitt without a reservoir, but with theelongated body and the radial application surface. This provides a mittthat has a smoother surface which will both be ergonomic in that itaccommodates the user's hand when her fingers are spread apart and willprotect more than the user's hand and wrist from harmful substances.

EXAMPLE 5

Another example of the applicator made in accordance with the presentinvention is a mitt with removable liners. The liners are made to linethe inside of the mitt to protect the user's hands. Preferably, theliners are made from a substance which protects the user's hands from aharmful substances such as vinyl, plastic or other similar materials.The liners would be in the same general shape as the mitt and share thesame construction. This would permit a user to simply slip a liner intoa mitt before use. In one embodiment, the mitt liner can have areservoir which conforms to the outer layer's reservoir.

After use, the mitt would be washed and used again. The liner could thenbe washed or disposed of after a single use. In one embodiment, ahook-and-loop fastener could be attached to both the inside of the mittand the liner. When the liner is inserted into the mitt, the fastener onthe mitt and the fastener on the liner would engage. This would helpprevent the liner from slipping within the mitt, which would help theuser in the retention of the mitt.

The foregoing examples and descriptions of the preferred embodiments ofthe invention have been presented for purposes of illustration anddescription only. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit theinvention to the precise forms disclosed, and modifications andvariations are possible and contemplated in light of the aboveteachings. While a number of preferred and alternate embodiments,systems, configurations, methods, and potential applications have beendescribed, it should be understood that many variations and alternativescould be utilized without departing from the scope of the invention.

Thus, it should be understood that the embodiments and examples havebeen chosen and described in order to best illustrate the principles ofthe invention and its practical applications to thereby enable one ofordinary skill in the art to best utilize the invention in variousembodiments and with various modifications as are suited for particularuses contemplated. Accordingly, it is intended that such modificationsfall within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims appendedhereto.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The disclosure herein has applicability to the field of mitts forapplying substances to target surfaces.

In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described inlanguage more or less specific as to structural features. It is to beunderstood, however, that the invention is not limited to the specificfeatures shown or described, since the means and construction shown ordescribed comprise preferred forms of putting the invention into effect.The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms ormodifications within the legitimate and valid scope of the appendedclaims, appropriately interpreted in accordance with the doctrine ofequivalents.

1. A mitt applicator for distributing a substance onto a target surface,said applicator comprising: a. a substantially planar applicator bodyhaving two panels of material, each composed of at least one layer ofmaterial, in which the panels are disposed in a generally opposingmanner about a central plane and are joined as to define a single cavitybetween the panels of sufficient shape and size to accommodate either aright human hand or left human hand or two human hands simultaneously;and b. a reservoir formed in at least one of the panels to receivesubstances to be distributed.
 2. The applicator of claim 1, wherein saidpanels each have one or more layers and at least one layer of bothpanels is comprised of a substantially impervious material to protectsaid human hand against substances applied to said mitt.
 3. Theapplicator of claim 1, wherein said body extends at least past themidpoint of a user's forearm, a. whereby the body aids in securing theapplicator to the user and protecting the user.
 4. The applicator ofclaim 1, wherein the end distal of the body further comprises a radialshape to accommodate the shape of the user's hand when the user'sfingers are spaced fully apart.
 5. The applicator of claim 1, whereinthe outer most layer of one of the panels is comprised of a differentmaterial than the outer most layer of material of the other panel. 6.The applicator of claim 1, wherein the mitt uses a method of labelingsuch as color coding to determine what substances the mitt is designedfor or has been in contact with.
 7. The applicator of claim 1, whereinsaid layer of material can be comprised of different pieces of material.8. The applicator of claim 1, wherein said cavity is open for insertionof said human hand and has a means to aid in retention of the saidapplicator.
 9. The applicator of claim 8, wherein the means of retentionis an elastic cuff.
 10. The applicator of claim 1, wherein a mitt lineris configured to fit into the cavity of the mitt said mitt liner havinga substantially planar body having two liner panels of material, eachcomposed of at least one layer of material, in which the liner panelsare disposed in a generally opposing manner about a central plane andare joined as to define a single liner cavity between the panels ofsufficient shape and size to accommodate either a right or left humanhand or two human hands simultaneously.
 11. The applicator of claim 10,wherein the mitt liner is made from vinyl.
 12. The applicator of claim10, wherein the mitt liner has an elastic cuff to aid in retention ofthe applicator.
 13. A mitt applicator for distributing a substance ontoa target surface, said applicator comprising: a. a substantially planarapplicator body having two panels of material, each composed of at leastone layer of material, in which the panels are disposed in a generallyopposing manner about a central plane and are joined as to define asingle cavity between the panels of sufficient shape and size toaccommodate either a right or left human hand or two human handssimultaneously; b. said body extending at least past the midpoint of auser's forearm, i. whereby the body aids in securing the applicator tothe user and protecting the user; and c. the distal end of said bodyhaving a radial shape to accommodate the shape of the user's hand whenthe user's fingers are spaced fully apart.
 14. The applicator of claim13, wherein said cavity is open for insertion of said human hand and hasa means to aid in retention of the said applicator.
 15. The applicatorof claim 14, wherein the means of retention is at least one elasticcuff.
 16. The applicator of claim 13, wherein the mitt has a pluralityof elastic cuffs configured to aid in retention to the user.
 17. Theapplicator of claim 13, wherein the said panels have at least one layercomprised of a substantially impervious material to protect said humanhand against substances applied to said mitt.
 18. The applicator ofclaim 13, wherein a reservoir is formed in at least one of the panels toreceive substances to be distributed.
 19. The applicator of claim 13,wherein the outer most layer of one of the panels is comprised of adifferent of material than the outer most layer of material of the otherpanel.
 20. The applicator of claim 13, wherein the mitt uses a method oflabeling such as color coding to determine what substances the mitt isdesigned for or has been in contact with.
 21. The applicator of claim13, wherein said layer is comprised of different pieces of materialwhereby the material form a single layer.
 22. The applicator of claim13, wherein a mitt liner can be inserted, said mitt liner configured tofit into the cavity of the mitt said mitt liner having a substantiallyplanar body having two liner panels of material, each composed of atleast one layer of material, in which the liner panels are disposed in agenerally opposing manner about a central plane and are joined as todefine a single liner cavity between the panels of sufficient shape andsize to accommodate either a right or left human hand or two human handssimultaneously.
 23. The applicator of claim 22, wherein the mitt lineris made from vinyl.
 24. The applicator of claim 22, wherein the mittliner has at least one elastic cuff to aid in retention of theapplicator.
 25. A method of making an applicator mitt comprising thesteps of: a. providing a front panel and a back panel, each composed ofat least one layer generally opposed about a central plane; b. providinga pocket from one or both of the said front panel or said back panel toform a reservoir; c. cutting said front panel and said back panel into adesired shape to define said applicator; and d. joining said front paneland said back panel near their periphery so as to define said singlecavity there between of sufficient shape and size to accommodate a righthuman hand or left human hand or two human hands simultaneously.
 26. Themethod of claim 25, wherein a method of retention is attached at theopening of said cavity to aid in retention of the said applicator. 27.The method of claim 25, wherein a labeling system such as color codingto determine what substances the mitt is designed for or has been incontact with is indicated on said mitt.
 28. The applicator of claim 25,wherein said layer of material can be comprised of different pieces ofmaterial.
 29. A method of applying a liquid or gel to a surface using amitt applicator comprising the steps of: a. inserting at least one humanhand in a mitt applicator such as a mitt; b. dipping said applicator ina liquid or gel or using a similar delivery method which fills areservoir on the mitt; c. rubbing the coated surfaces of said applicatorto the target surface; d. using uncoated surfaces of said applicator toapply another liquid or gel or to polish or dry the target surface; ande. turning the mitt inside out for disposal.
 30. The method of claim 29,wherein said dipping comprises filling a pocket on said applicator withsaid liquid or gel using said palm of a human hand.
 31. A method ofproviding treatment to a patient and disposing of the mitt, by acaregiver using a mitt applicator comprising the steps of: a. insertingat least one human hand into the mitt applicator such as a mitt; b.dipping said applicator in a liquid or gel which fills a reservoir onthe mitt; c. filling a pocket on said applicator with said liquid or gelusing said palm of a human hand; d. rubbing said mitt on the patient'swound, thereby treating the patient; e. using uncoated surfaces of saidapplicator to apply another liquid or gel or to dry the patient; f.removing the one hand of the caregiver while the mitt maintains contactwith the patient's wound; and g. turning the mitt inside out fordisposal.